Introduction: In this chapter 34, the prophet Ezekiel addresses the failure of the shepherds of Israel to care for their flock, and the promise of God to intervene and provide redemption for his people. As we dive into this outline, we will take a closer look at the depth of God’s redeeming love and the hope it brings to those who are lost and forsaken, which is good news for the world we live in today.
I. Ezekiel 34:1-6 – God’s indictment of the shepherds of Israel
In the opening verses of this chapter, God speaks through Ezekiel to condemn the shepherds of Israel for their selfishness and neglect of the flock. These leaders were meant to care for and guide the people, but instead, they have used their position for personal gain, leaving the sheep scattered and vulnerable. These verses are similar to the words of Jeremiah 23:1-2, where God also condemns the shepherds of Israel for their failure to care for the flock. The theme of irresponsible leadership is also seen in Zechariah 11:17, where the prophet speaks of a worthless shepherd who abandons the flock.
II. Ezekiel 34:7-10 – God’s judgment on the shepherds
God continues to speak through Ezekiel, declaring that he will hold the shepherds accountable for their actions. They will be removed from their positions of power, and God himself will step in to rescue the flock. This promise of God’s intervention is reminds us of Psalm 23, where the Lord is depicted as a good shepherd who cares for his sheep. The theme of God’s judgment on corrupt leaders is also seen in Matthew 23:1-36, where Jesus condemns the religious leaders of his time for their hypocrisy and exploitation of the people.
III. Ezekiel 34:11-16 – God’s promise to seek and save the lost
In these verses, God makes a powerful promise to seek out and save the lost sheep of Israel. He will gather them from all the places they have been scattered and bring them back to their own land. This promise is repeated in Luke 15:4-7, where Jesus tells the parable of the lost sheep, emphasizing God’s relentless pursuit of those who are lost. The theme of God’s redemption is also seen in Isaiah 43:1, where God assures his people that he has redeemed them and called them by name.
IV. Ezekiel 34:17-22 – God’s judgment on the sheep
While God promises to save the lost sheep, he also makes it clear that there will be judgment for those who have oppressed and harmed others. The sheep who have become strong and fat at the expense of the weak will be held accountable. These verses is remind us of James 5:1-6, where the rich are warned of the judgment to come for their exploitation of the poor. The topic of God’s judgment on the oppressors is also seen in Amos 5:11-12, where the prophet speaks of the wealthy who trample on the poor and deny them justice.
V. Ezekiel 34:23-31 – God’s promise of a new shepherd and a new covenant
In the final verses of this chapter, God promises to raise up a new shepherd, who will be a true leader and caretaker for the flock. This shepherd is identified as David, a reference to the Davidic covenant and the promise of a Messiah. This promise is fulfilled in Jesus, as seen in John 10:11, where he declares himself to be the good shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep. The theme of God’s new covenant is also seen in Jeremiah 31:31-34, where God promises to make a new covenant with his people, one that will be written on their hearts.
Conclusion: Ezekiel 34 sheds light on the failure of human leadership, the shepherds of the day, and the promise of God’s redeeming love. Through the indictment of the shepherds, the judgment on the sheep, and the promise of a new shepherd and covenant, we see the depth of God’s care for his people. The power of redemption in Ezekiel 34 offers hope to all who are lost and forsaken, reminding us that God is the ultimate shepherd who seeks out and saves the lost.
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